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Mercedes-Benz has big plans for small cars

Breaking outside its American position of rear-wheel-drive luxury vehicles, Mercedes-Benz will launch its new front-wheel-drive architecture in the United States in the next three years in the form of a coupe, SUV and possibly a small wagon or compact hatchback. Joachim Schmidt, Mercedes' global sales and marketing boss, said Mercedes is developing at least four models based on its MFA, or Mercedes Front-wheel-drive Architecture. "We will introduce the next generation of our MFA family to the U.S.," Schmidt said in an interview.

Family Affair: Rod and Rhys Millen return to Pikes Peak, together

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is a month away, which means most teams are starting to feel the pressure of challenging one of the oldest races in the world. There might be a little extra anxiety this year for Hyundai driver Rhys Millen, whose father, Rod Millen, will make his return to the 156-turn mountain course. Rod Millen held the world record at Pikes Peak for 13 years with a time of 10 minutes, 4.06 seconds.

Maeda named new Mazda design boss, replacing van den Acker

Ikuo Maeda is the new head of design at Mazda Motor Corp. The man who is credited with styling the Mazda's flagship sports car takes over for Dutchman Laurens van den Acker, 43, who has decided to leave the company "to pursue other interests," the automaker said in a statement today. Van den Acker, who joined Mazda in 2006, will remain at the automaker until April 10 to ensure a smooth transition for Maeda, Mazda said.